Rec-to-rec recruiters have missed out on fees because agencies are not licensed under the recently launched points-based immigration system. Tier two for skilled workers was launched on the 27 November and requires companies to have a sponsorship licence to employ immigrants from outside the EU.

Jo Palmer, manager at rec-to-rec recruiter Heywood Associates, told Recruiter she was “devastated” when she was unable to place a consultant because her client did not have a sponsorship licence yet.

The South African consultant, who wishes to remain nameless, told Recruiter that she has had to change her career goals after having to turn down the job offer. “I have re-focused my job role because I was so unhappy. It has affected the growth I was looking for in my career, but I have taken a very favourable lateral step and it has allowed me to discover what I want from my current role.”

Under the new rules companies wishing to sponsor workers from outside the EU need to contact the Home Office and apply for a licence.